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United States Patent |
6,095,998
|
Osborn, III
,   et al.
|
August 1, 2000
|
Expandable bag tampon and spreading tampon applicator therefor
Abstract
An expandable bag catamenial tampon and spreading tampon applicators for
such a tampon are disclosed. The catamenial tampon is in the form of a
soft, conformable, hollow bag. The applicator is capable of inserting the
tampon into the vaginal tract and spreading the tampon open within the
vaginal cavity. The applicator has an applicator element with a leading
end and a trailing end. The bag-like tampon is placed over the leading end
of the applicator when the tampon is in a flaccid initial configuration
which defines an initial width, and the applicator is used to spread the
tampon to a greater deployed width. In one embodiment, the applicator
comprises tube having an interior and a flexible material which has one
end that is formed into a flexible and expandable loop. The flexible loop
is slidably mounted within the tube. The flexible loop is contained inside
the tube until it is desired to deploy the tampon. When it is desired to
deploy the tampon, the flexible loop with the tampon thereon is pushed out
the expulsion end of the tube. The flexible loop expands laterally and
spreads the tampon open within the vaginal cavity.
Inventors:
|
Osborn, III; Thomas Ward (Cincinnati, OH);
Tweddell, III; Richard (Cincinnati, OH);
MacKay; Lisa Ann (Cincinnati, OH)
|
Assignee:
|
The Procter & Gamble Company (Cincinnati, OH)
|
Appl. No.:
|
124351 |
Filed:
|
July 29, 1998 |
Current U.S. Class: |
604/11; 604/14; 604/15; 604/904 |
Intern'l Class: |
A61F 013/20 |
Field of Search: |
604/904,11-18,59,57,1-3,363,285-288
|
References Cited
U.S. Patent Documents
61417 | Feb., 1867 | Grant.
| |
1969671 | Aug., 1934 | Nelson.
| |
2458685 | Jan., 1949 | Crockford.
| |
2733714 | Feb., 1956 | Haas.
| |
2884925 | May., 1959 | Meynier, Jr.
| |
3068867 | Dec., 1962 | Bletzinger et al.
| |
3495586 | Feb., 1970 | Regenbogen.
| |
3706311 | Dec., 1972 | Kokx et al.
| |
3749094 | Jul., 1973 | Duncan.
| |
3753437 | Aug., 1973 | Hood et al.
| |
3762413 | Oct., 1973 | Hanke.
| |
3857395 | Dec., 1974 | Johnson et al. | 604/904.
|
3885563 | May., 1975 | Johnson et al. | 604/11.
|
3971398 | Jul., 1976 | Krantz.
| |
3981305 | Sep., 1976 | Ring | 604/904.
|
3986511 | Oct., 1976 | Olofsson et al.
| |
4010751 | Mar., 1977 | Ring | 604/15.
|
4211225 | Jul., 1980 | Sibalis.
| |
4536178 | Aug., 1985 | Lichstein et al.
| |
5346468 | Sep., 1994 | Campion et al.
| |
5370633 | Dec., 1994 | Villata.
| |
5395383 | Mar., 1995 | Adams et al. | 604/14.
|
5558631 | Sep., 1996 | Campion et al.
| |
5659934 | Aug., 1997 | Jessup et al.
| |
Primary Examiner: Weiss; John G.
Assistant Examiner: Ruhl; Dennis
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Bamber; Jeffrey V., Fitzpatrick; Matthew P.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A combination of a catamenial tampon applicator and a tampon, said
combination comprising:
an applicator comprising an applicator element with an expandable leading
end and a trailing end; and
a tampon having a bag structure having an open trailing end and a closed
head end, said tampon having a flaccid initial configuration which defines
an initial width, and a spread deployed configuration which defines a
greater deployed width, wherein said open trailing end of said tampon fits
over at least a portion of the leading end of said applicator element.
2. The combination of claim 1 wherein said tampon has an inside surface,
and an outside surface, and wherein said applicator element when expanded
is configured to contact the inside surface of said tampon along the
closed head end of the tampon.
3. A combination of a catamenial tampon applicator and a tampon, said
combination comprising:
an applicator comprising an applicator element with a leading end and a
trailing end wherein said applicator element comprises at least one
laterally expandable structure; and
a tampon having a bag structure, said tampon having a flaccid initial
configuration which defines an initial width, and a spread deployed
configuration which defines a greater deployed width, wherein said tampon
fits over at least a portion of the leading end of said applicator
element.
4. The combination of claim 3 wherein said applicator element comprises at
least one flexible loop of material.
5. The combination of claim 3 wherein said applicator element comprises at
least one pair of opposed prongs.
6. A combination of a catamenial tampon applicator and a tampon, said
applicator comprising an expandable applicator element having a distal end
capable of being inserted into a user's vagina and a proximal end, said
tampon having a bag structure with an initial width and a deployed width
and an open end and a closed end, said open end of said bag structure
fitting over at least a portion of said applicator element, and said
applicator element having means that allows said user to expand said
tampon so that its deployed width is greater than its initial width.
7. The combination of claim 6 wherein said tampon has an inside surface, an
outside surface, and sides, wherein said applicator element is configured
to contact the inside surface of said tampon along the closed end of the
tampon, the applicator element being capable of applying forces having a
laterally outwardly-oriented vector component to the inside surface of the
tampon proximate its closed end to expand the sides of the tampon adjacent
to the closed end of the tampon.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to applicators for catamenial tampons, and more
particularly to an applicator which is capable of inserting a tampon into
the vaginal tract and spreading the tampon open within the vaginal cavity.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It has been long recognized that the internal vaginal cavity in its normal
collapsed state is of much wider dimension in its transverse plane than in
its vertical plane. It is equally well known that the minimum dimension of
the vagina is at the introitus while the maximum dimension is near the
cervix. It is desirable therefore, when considering a tampon for
catamenial use, to provide a structure which is in its initial state is of
a size small enough to pass through the vaginal orifice without
discomfort, and when once inside the vaginal cavity and beyond the
restrictions of the orifice may be expanded, particularly in the lateral
direction, to contact substantially all of surface of the vaginal walls
from one side to the other in the vaginal cavity to prevent early bypass
of the menstrual discharges from the cervix. Since the vaginal wall in its
normal collapsed state is flaccid and has multiple folds and wrinkles
which provide channels through which a significant portion of the
menstrual fluids normally flow, it is also important that the absorbent
tampon be as soft and conformable as possible, in order to conform to
shape of the vaginal cavity and fit within these channels to minimize
leakage.
The absorbent catamenial tampons now in general use comprise small, highly
compressed, cylindrical plugs about three-eighths to one-half inch (about
1.0 cm to 1.3 cm) in diameter and from 11/2 to 21/2 inches in length
(about 3.8 cm to 6.4 cm). Because of the need for absorbent capacity, they
are usually formed from batts much larger in size than the vaginal
orifice, and compressed to the small size indicated above in order to
facilitate insertion. As fluid is absorbed, these compressed tampons are
expected to expand (or re-expand) toward their original precompressed
size, and to eventually become large enough to effectively block the
vaginal cavity against fluid leakage or bypass. While it has been found
that these compressed tampons perform their intended function tolerably
well, even the best of them do not expand sufficiently, or fast enough, to
provide a good transverse block against leakage even though the vertical
block may be satisfactory. Further, most of these tampons generally use
only a portion of their absorptive capacity before leakage. Since these
tampons rely on some fluid absorption to expand, it is clear that fluid
bypass and leakage can occur prematurely.
Numerous attempts have been made to solve this problem. Some approaches in
the patent art suggest a tampon with a built-in mechanical expansion
means, a typical example being U.S. Pat. No. 3,706,311 to Kokx et al.
However, while a good transverse block appears to be produced, the
mechanical expansion means disclosed in that patent is in the form of a
flat spring-like element which after insertion permanently maintains the
spread configuration of the tampon, may make it difficult to remove.
Another approach is described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,512,528 to Whitehead et
al, which teaches the use of a sack of absorbent material collapsed to a
small size for insertion and which after insertion is expanded by the
introduction of a gas or a fluid internally of the sack. The multiple
steps and complicated manipulation of the gas or fluid introduction means
required when using this type of tampon detract from what otherwise
appears to be an effective solution of the problem.
Still another approach is described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,857,395 issued to
Johnson, et al. The Johnson, et al. patent teaches the use of an elongated
inserter device over which a flat tampon is draped. The inserter is said
to permit the draped portion of the tampon to be pulled, rather than
pushed into the cavity from the point at which the tampon is supported on
the leading end of the inserter. The inserter means is equipped with a
bilateral expansion mechanism which at the user's option may be operated
to transversely spread the tampon at the time of insertion. The inserter
device described in the Johnson, et al. patent suffers from many
drawbacks, however. The Johnson inserter device is a complicated device
comprising a pair of hinged arms that are capable of laterally diverging
at a hinge or joint. The angular nature of the hinged arms would appear to
make that inserter uncomfortable to use. The complex nature of the hinged
arms would also appear to make it difficult and expensive to manufacture.
As a result, it would not be suitable as a disposable applicator.
Another problem that exists in deploying tampons having a greater
transverse dimension within the vaginal cavity is that this greater
transverse dimension of the vaginal cavity is roughly perpendicular to the
vaginal opening.
One attempt to address this latter problem is described in U.S. Pat. No.
3,068,867 issued to Bletzinger, et al. The Bletzinger, et al. patent is
directed to a tampon insertion device having a positioning indicator
thereon. The device described in the Bletzinger, et al. patent comprises
an insertion device for tampons which are either of cylindrical
cross-section, or non-cylindrical cross-section but constructed to expand
when subjected to fluids in a non-cylindrical shape. The insertion device
is provided with an indicator that aids the user in inserting the tampon
with its major cross-sectional axis transverse to the major axis of the
vaginal opening.
The Bletzinger device, however, is awkward in that it requires insertion of
the widest dimension of the tampon cross-wise to the narrowest dimension
of the vaginal opening. Thus, a need exists for a tampon applicator which
is capable of effectively deploying a tampon having a non-cylindrical
shape in the vaginal cavity which does not require alignment of the widest
dimension of the tampon cross-wise to the narrowest dimension of the
vaginal opening.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to applicators for catamenial tampons, and more
particularly to an applicator which is capable of inserting a tampon into
the vaginal tract and spreading the tampon open within the vaginal cavity.
The present invention is also directed to the combination of an expandable
catamenial tampon and a spreading tampon applicator.
The spreading tampon applicator is preferably capable of first inserting
and then bilaterally spreading the tampon to a partially or fully-opened
condition within the vaginal cavity. The tampon applicator comprises an
applicator element with a leading end and a trailing end. In embodiments
that are less preferred from a convenience standpoint, the inserter may
comprise a rod or other structure that is used for inserting the tampon
and the inserter is manually moved from side to side to deploy the tampon.
In embodiments that are more preferred for convenience, the applicator
includes a structure that expands the tampon without such action on the
part of the user.
In such more convenient embodiments, the spreading tampon applicator
preferably comprises a holder in the form of an elongate tube having
insertion end, a gripping end, an interior, and an inside diameter. The
spreading tampon applicator preferably further comprises at least one
flexible, movable structure that is adapted to reside inside the tubular
holder until it is pushed out the insertion end. The flexible, movable
structure preferably has resilient opposed portions that are biased to
expand when not subject to confinement in the tubular holder. A hollow
"bag-like" tampon is preferably placed over the flexible structure when
the flexible structure is inside the tubular holder. When the flexible
structure is pushed out of the insertion end of the holder it spreads out
to deploy the tampon. The flexible, movable structure can comprise one or
more elements. These elements preferably have opposing portions that are
capable of flexing and expanding away from each other. In preferred
embodiments, the elements are convexly rounded to provide a comfortable
surface against the wearer's body.
In one preferred embodiment, the flexible, movable structure comprises at
least one flexible loop of material. The loop of material preferably
comprises an elongate piece of material, preferably in the form of a
flexible rod, which has two ends. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible
rod is bent so that one portion of the piece of material is formed into an
expandable loop and the ends of the piece of material opposite the loop
extend in the same general direction as one another. The loop is
preferably slidably mounted within the tubular holder. The "bag-like"
tampon is preferably placed over the flexible loop. The loop has an
initial width which is less than or equal to the inside diameter of the
tubular holder, and is expandable so that it has a deployed width which is
greater than the inside diameter of the tubular holder.
The spreading tampon applicator described herein is small enough in size to
pass through the vaginal orifice without undue stretching or friction.
Once the flexible loop is inside the vaginal cavity, it expands the tampon
in the lateral direction and positions the tampon in the proper
orientation in the vaginal cavity. In all of the embodiments described
herein, the spreading force that is exerted by the applicator can be
regulated by the force applied by the wearer on the applicator. The
spreading tampon applicator of the present invention, unlike prior angular
and hinged devices, is very comfortable to use, simple and cost-effective
to make.
A non-limiting number of embodiments of the present invention are possible.
In the most basic form of the loop-type of embodiment, the applicator
comprises a single loop of material (and such an embodiment can even be
used alone without the tubular holder). In one particularly preferred
embodiment, the applicator comprises two (or more) loops of material. Such
a particularly preferred embodiment may be used with or without a tubular
holder. Preferably, it is used in conjunction with a tubular holder. In
this particularly preferred embodiment, the loops of material are
preferably oriented at an angle of about 90 degrees relative to each other
when the applicator is viewed from the end. This embodiment has the
advantage of providing an increased likelihood of ensuring that one of the
loops of material will be oriented in the same plane as the vaginal
cavity. In another embodiment, the loop can be provided with the ability
to rotate as it deploys. Such an embodiment is useful in initially
aligning the loop parallel to the opening of the vagina when the tampon is
inserted through the vaginal opening, and then changing the orientation of
the loop so that it is aligned parallel to the vaginal cavity when the
tampon is deployed. In still another embodiment, the applicator has a loop
that is constrained in length as it deploys by joining a portion of the
loop to the inserter. The loop in this embodiment resembles a "ram's horn"
in appearance.
Other embodiments are also possible. For example, the flexible, movable
structure need not be in the form of a loop. It can, for instance, instead
be comprised of separate prongs that are biased to flex away from each
other, and spread out. Numerous other embodiments are possible. Many of
the embodiments described herein are particularly useful because they
provide a "signal" to the user that the tampon is properly oriented and is
spread laterally across the vaginal cavity. The applicators described
herein are also capable of deploying a tampon which closely fits the
cross-section of the vaginal cavity. In particular, the applicators
described herein may be suitable for fitting the tampon to the portion(s)
of the vaginal cavity which have a cross-section that resembles a
compressed upper case letter "H".
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a tampon applicator
according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the tampon applicator shown in FIG. 1 with
the loop partially deployed.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the tampon applicator shown in FIG. 1 with
the flexible loop fully deployed.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the tampon applicator shown in FIG. 1 with
the loop retracted.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the
tampon applicator of the present invention in which the flexible loop is
provided with the ability to rotate 90 degrees during deployment to
accommodate the difference in orientation between the vaginal opening and
the vaginal cavity.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the tampon applicator shown in FIG. 5 which
shows the flexible loop in a vertical position for insertion through the
vaginal opening.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the tampon applicator shown in FIG. 5 which
shows the flexible loop rotated 90 degrees for insertion of the tampon in
the vaginal cavity.
FIG. 8 is a side view of the tampon applicator shown in FIG. 5, partially
cut away, which shows the mechanism which provides the flexible loop with
the ability to rotate.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a preferred alternative embodiment of the
tampon applicator of the present invention which comprises two flexible
loops that are oriented at a 90 degree angle relative to each other.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the tampon applicator shown in FIG. 9
which shows how the two loops will come together to a similar planar
relationship to accommodate the shape of the vaginal cavity.
FIG. 11 is a partially fragmented perspective view of another alternative
embodiment of the tampon applicator of the present invention in which the
flexible loop is constrained in length as it deploys by having a portion
thereof joined to the holder.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the tampon applicator shown in FIG. 11 in
a partially deployed condition.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the tampon applicator shown in FIG. 11 in
a fully deployed condition.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another alternative tampon applicator
which comprises several flexible prongs instead of a flexible loop.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a simplified version of a tampon
applicator and a tampon that it may be used to spread open by manually
moving the applicator from side to side.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to applicators for catamenial tampons, and more
particularly to applicators which are capable of inserting a tampon into
the vaginal tract and spreading the tampon open within the vaginal cavity.
The present invention also relates to a combination of an improved
conformable tampon and a spreading applicator therefor to be used for
inserting and spreading the tampon open within the vaginal cavity.
FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of the tampon applicator 20 of the present
invention. The applicator 20 shown in FIG. 1 is an example of a simplified
version of one embodiment of the present invention. The tampon applicator
20 shown in FIG. 1 generally comprises a holder in the form of a tube,
preferably an elongate tube 22 and at least one flexible, movable
structure that is adapted to reside inside the tube 22 until it is pushed
out the end of the tube. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the flexible,
movable structure comprises flexible loop 24. The flexible loop 24
comprises the applicator element in such an embodiment. The tampon 26, one
embodiment of which is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, fits over the loop 24 and
is capable of expanding when the loop 24 expands. As shown in FIG. 1, the
tampon applicator 20 preferably also includes a plunger 28 for expelling
the tampon 26. The plunger 28 is telescopically and slidably mounted
inside the tubular holder 22. The applicator 20 is preferably inexpensive
enough to manufacture that it can be disposable after a single use,
although it is also possible for the applicator 20 to be reusable. The
components of this embodiment of the tampon applicator of the present
invention will now be looked at in greater detail.
The holder 22 is preferably an elongate hollow tube that has insertion end
(or "expulsion end") 22A, a gripping end 22B, an interior I, and an inside
diameter ID. The holder 22 can be of either the open end type, or the
closed end type. The holder 22 can be constructed similarly to tubular
holders of the type used in tampon applicators currently in use. Examples
of such a tubular holder are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,346,468 issued
to Campion, et al. on Sep. 13, 1994, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,558,631 issued to
Campion, et al. on Sep. 24, 1996. The holder 22 can be of any suitable
cross-sectional shape. Suitable cross-sectional shapes include, but are
not limited to circular, oval, flattened circular, and elliptical.
Preferably, the holder 22 has a circular cross-sectional configuration. If
the holder 22 is of a closed end type, the "petals" 23 that define the
opening 25 at the insertion end 22A can be of any conventional type. It
has been found that it is not necessary to modify the shape of the opening
25 at the insertion end 22A to permit the flexible loop 24 to be pushed
through the opening, since the petals 23 are sufficiently flexible to move
out of the way of the flexible loop 24. In the embodiment shown in the
drawings, the opening 25 has a cruciform shape.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the tubular holder 22 comprises an
optional finger grip 30 for assisting the user in holding the tubular
holder 22 when inserting the tampon, and pushing the plunger 28. The
tubular holder 22 may or may not be provided with such an optional
fingergrip 30 to assist the user in inserting the tampon 26. The finger
grip 30, if used, can be in any suitable form, including, but not limited
to raised formations, depressions, and apertures. In the embodiment shown
in FIG. 1, the finger grip 30 comprises a pair of embossed rings 32.
The flexible, movable structure 24 can comprise any suitable type of
flexible, expandable, and preferably rounded element that is capable of
remaining in the holder 22 until it is desired to deploy the tampon. When
the time to deploy the tampon 26 arises, the flexible, movable structure
24 is capable of moving within the holder 22 (hence it is movable) and
expanding to spread the tampon 26 within the vaginal cavity. Thus, the
tampon applicators described herein, plus any variations of the same that
will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after reading
this specification, may be described as comprising a means for expanding
the tampon across the vagina.
The flexible, movable structure 24 is preferably in the form of a loop so
that it is most comfortable when it is deployed. The flexible, movable
structure 24 preferably has a relatively low force of expansion (force
which it applies to objects in contact with it when it opens) so that it
minimizes any distortion of the vaginal opening when the tampon 26 is
inserted through the vaginal opening, and minimizes the distortion of the
vaginal cavity when the tampon 26 is deployed within the vaginal cavity.
The flexible, movable structure 24 preferably only distorts the vaginal
cavity to the extent necessary to properly deploy the tampon 26 therein.
The flexible, movable structure 24 is also capable of flexing to adjust to
the shape of the vaginal cavity. This can be contrasted with devices that
use structures employing hinged arms in order to expand.
The flexible loop 24 preferably comprises an elongate piece of material 34
such as a flexible rod or tube, having two ends 36 and 38 that extend in
the same general direction. The flexible loop 24 may also be referred to
herein as a "wisk" since it resembles a wisk of the type used for cooking
(e.g., for beating eggs). (However, the loops on such a cooking implement
are typically not flexible and expandable). The piece of material 34 that
comprises the flexible loop has one portion which is formed into the
flexible and expandable loop 24. The flexible loop is advantageous in that
all of the portions that will come into contact with the wearer's body are
preferably convexly rounded to provide a comfortable structure for
contacting the wearer's body, in contrast to prior devices having angular
hinge-type mechanisms. However, it is also possible to modify the flexible
loop 24 to provide one or more portions thereof with one or more segments
along its length that are concavely rounded, rectilinear, or both.
Thus, not only is the leading end 24A of the flexible loop 24 convexly
rounded, but the longitudinal sides 24B of the flexible loop 24 are also
preferably convexly rounded. In some embodiments, the entirety of the
longitudinal sides 24B of the flexible loop 24 is convexly rounded. The
fact that the longitudinal sides 24B are convexly rounded causes them to
be biased outward away from each other when the flexible loop 24 is
constrained in width, such as when it resides in the holder 22. As a
result, the flexible loop 24 expands on its own when it is pushed out of
the end of the holder 22, and no mechanical mechanism is required to be
present in the applicator 20 to spread the flexible loop 24.
The piece of material 34 that is formed into the flexible loop 24 can
comprise any suitable material that has the characteristics described
herein. The piece of material (or rod) 34 can have any suitable
cross-sectional shape. Preferably, it has a round cross-sectional shape.
The piece of material 34 should preferably be very comfortable when it
comes in contact with the delicate parts of the user's body. The piece of
material 34 is preferably resiliently elastomeric so that it does not
undergo "set" when it is within the holder 22 and can expand when outside
the holder 22. The piece of material 34 should preferably be substantially
non-creeping. Preferred materials for the piece of material 34 typically
comprise some type of elastomeric material including rubber, such as
natural rubber, latex, nitrile, and silicone rubbers. Other materials that
can be formed into structures with spring-like properties, such as a metal
diaphragm spring material may also be used. Such other materials may
optionally be coated with another material for improved comfort. Suitable
coatings include, but are not limited to any of the foregoing rubber
materials.
The flexible loop 24 is movable within the tubular holder 22, and is
preferably slidably mounted within the tubular holder 22. The flexible
loop 24 has an initial width, IW, which is less than or equal to the
inside diameter, ID, of the tubular holder 22, and a deployed width, DW,
shown in FIG. 3, which is greater than the inside diameter, ID, of the
tubular holder 22. That is, the flexible loop 24 expands from a first
transverse width to a second transverse width. In one non-limiting
example, the flexible loop 24 may have an initial width, IW, of about 7/16
inch (about 1 cm) and a deployed width, DW, of about 1 inch (about 25 cm)
to about 11/4 inches (about 30 cm to about 35 cm).
The tampon 26 can be of any suitable configuration that is able to be
expanded upon insertion into the vaginal cavity by the spreading tampon
applicator 20 of the present invention. The tampon 26 is preferably
conformable to the shape of the user's vaginal cavity. It is also
preferably soft and substantially uncompressed, and does not rely on
expansion from a compressed state in order to fit and fill the vaginal
cavity.
One embodiment of the tampon 26 is shown in the FIG. 3. The tampon 26 fits
over the flexible loop 24 and is capable of expanding bi-laterally when
the loop 24 expands. In the embodiment of the tampon shown in FIG. 3, the
tampon 26 comprises an absorbent element that has a configuration that
resembles an "oven mitt" used in cooking. The tampon 26 has a head 26A or
end that is the first portion of the tampon to be inserted into the
vaginal cavity, a trailing end 26B, surfaces 26C, and edges 26D. The
tampon 26 has a structure that resembles a bag (that is, it is "bag-like")
in that it preferably has an open trailing end 26B, and a hollow, rather
than a solid interior. Thus, the tampon 26 preferably has two or more
sides 26C that are joined together, a closed end 26A, and an open end 26B.
(However, it is also possible to insert a variety of different types of
optional elements (absorbent or otherwise) into the interior of the tampon
26 so that the bag-like structure may contain another element and, thus,
will not be completely empty.)
The tampon 26 is preferably highly flaccid and conformable. The tampon 26
need not be, and preferably is not pre-compressed to a point where the
fibers (or other components comprising the material of the tampon) "set"
and re-expand upon the absorption of liquids. The tampon 26, therefore,
need not rely on resilience or "spring" within the fibers of the tampon
itself to re-expand. This feature allows the tampon 26 to be significantly
more flaccid and conformable than previous tampons and, consequently, more
comfortable than such devices.
The tampon 26 may have a number of suitable plan view shapes. Suitable plan
view shapes, include, but are not limited to: generally rectangular with
rounded edges, a shape like the portion of a sock that is worn on a
wearer's foot (that is, not including the portion angled away from such a
portion, that is worn over the wearer's ankle), generally trapezoidal, or
as shown in FIG. 3, a shape that resembles a flattened light bulb or
flattened hot air balloon. Thus, the tampon 26 may be wider at the head
26A; wider at the trailing end 26B; or approximately equal width from the
head 26A to the trailing end; or, widest at some point between the head
26A and the trailing end 26B. The tampon 26 can be of any suitable size.
In one embodiment, the tampon 26 has a length measured from the head 26A
to trailing end 26B of about 21/2 inches (about 6 to about 6.5 cm) and a
width measured from one side 26D to the other of between about 25 mm to
about 30 or 35 mm plus or minus about 3 mm.
The tampon 26 can have a variety of different cross-sectional shapes when
it is placed over the flexible loop 24 prior to deploying the tampon 26.
For example, it may have a generally flat cross-section (e.g., one that
might resemble an oval) that fits closely over the loop 24, it may have a
generally circular cross-section, or a generally rectangular
cross-section. In other embodiments, the tampon 26 may have a modified
cross-section, such as the one shown in FIG. 15 that has two of its sides
pleated so that it resembles a paper shopping bag when looking into the
open end of the tampon 26. The pleats will allow the sides of the tampon
26 to expand laterally. In a variation of such an embodiment, the pleats
may be provided in an accordion-like fashion across the (top and bottom)
surfaces 26C so that the tampon is provided with increased ability to
expand laterally. In another variation of such an embodiment, it may be
desirable for the tampon 26 to have a plurality of such pleats disposed
around its cross-section that are capable opening in any desired direction
(that is, in three dimensions).
The tampon 26 preferably has a generally flat configuration when deployed.
This allows it to conform to the shape of the vaginal cavity. (The shape
of the vaginal cavity is described in greater detail in U.S. Pat. No.
3,749,094 issued to Duncan on Jul. 31, 1973.)
The outside surface 40 of the tampon 26 can be plain, or it can be
textured. Preferably, it is textured. Although the texture of the tampon
26 is not shown in great detail in the drawings for simplicity of
illustration, the tampon 26 preferably has an outside surface 40 that
comprises a plush or terry cloth type fabric. The outside surface 40
preferably has a plurality fibers or other elements 41 extending outwardly
therefrom (preferably generally perpendicular to the surfaces of the
expanded tampon 26). This is in contrast to current tampons in which the
fibers comprising such tampons generally lay flat relative to the surface
of the expanded tampon. The fibers or elements 41 of the tampon 26
described herein can, as a result, penetrate into the rugosities in the
vaginal cavity to intercept menses and reduce "by-pass" failures (failures
from menses traveling in these rugosities and around the tampon).
The tampon 26 can be made of any suitable material. Suitable materials
include cotton, rayon, and blends of cotton and rayon. The materials for
the tampon 26 can be formed into a fabric that is suitable for use in the
tampon 26 by any suitable process. Suitable types of materials include
woven fabrics, nonwoven fabrics, including needle punched nonwoven
fabrics, hydro-entangled structures, chemically entangled structures, and
other types of materials. Needle punched fabrics are particularly suitable
if it is desirable to provide the tampon 26 with a textured outside
surface.
One non-limiting example of a simplified manner of constructing the tampon
26 is as follows. In this example, the tampon 26 is made from materials
similar to those currently used in conventional tampons. A rectangular web
of absorbent material similar to that used to form a tampon pledget for
conventional compressed tampons can be used as a starting material. This
web of absorbent material can comprise a single layer of material such as
a nonwoven web, or it can comprise more than one layer. It can be
comprised of any of the types of materials described above. In a preferred
embodiment, it comprises a 50%/50% blend of cotton and rayon fibers that
is in the form of an airlaid nonwoven web. The web of absorbent material
can be of any suitable thickness that is capable of being formed into a
bag that is conformable as described herein. In such an embodiment, the
web of absorbent material may, for example, be of a thickness that is
equal to one of the layers of material that is typically formed into a
tampon pledget. The web of absorbent material may, for example, be between
about 1/4 and about 1/2 (or more or less than) the thickness of a
conventional tampon pledget that is formed from a plurality of such
layers.
The web of absorbent material is then preferably covered with a single
layer of nonwoven material of the type used to wrap conventional tampon
pledgets. (In other embodiments, materials can be chosen for the tampon
that do not require such an overwrap). If a nonwoven overwrap is used, the
nonwoven material is preferably folded around the faces of the web of
absorbent material. The nonwoven material is preferably of a sufficient
size that it extends beyond the ends of the web of absorbent material. The
portions of the nonwoven material that extend beyond the ends of the web
of absorbent material are then preferably sealed together. The wrapped web
of absorbent material is then folded about itself into a tube shape (or
flattened tube shape) and sealed with a seam along one side and at one end
to form the wrapped web of absorbent material into a bag structure. If
desired, the bag can be turned inside out so the seams will be on the
inside of the bag structure.
A key advantage of the tampon 26 described herein is that it can be
provided with an absorbency that is considered to be "regular" absorbency
(that is, about 6-9 grams of fluid) with only about one-half the amount of
material that is used in conventional compressed tampons. This is
attributable to, among other things, that the tampon 26 is flat like the
vaginal cavity, and can be spread to fill the same, but need not be
compressed in order to fit comfortably through the vaginal opening.
In a particularly preferred embodiment, the inside surface of the tampon 26
preferably has a different texture than the outside surface of the tampon
26. In particularly preferred embodiments, the tampon 26 is turned inside
out for removal, and the inside surface has a smoother texture that
provides improved comfort when the tampon 26 is removed and facilitates
removal of the tampon 26. The inside surface of the tampon 26 can comprise
a material that has a lower coefficient of friction against the wearer's
body than the outside surface. The inside surface can also be provided
with other features, such as a cleansing composition that can clean the
wearer's vaginal area when the tampon 26 is removed.
The tampon 26 preferably has a removal string 44 that is attached thereto.
The removal string 44 can be attached to the inside surface or the outside
surface 40 of the tampon 26. In one particularly preferred tampon, the
removal string 44 is attached to the inside surface of the tampon 26,
adjacent to the head 26A of the tampon 26 to facilitate inversion of the
tampon 26 upon removal.
The plunger 28 comprises a component that is used to expel the tampon 26
from its position within the holder 22 when the plunger 28 is pushed
manually into the holder 22. The plunger 28 can be any type of component
that is suitable for this purpose. Preferably, the plunger is
telescopically and slidably mounted in the holder 22. The plunger 28 can
be constructed similarly to plungers of the type used in tampon
applicators currently in use. An example of a suitable plunger is
described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,346,468 issued to Campion, et al. on Sep. 13,
1994, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,558,631 issued to Campion, et al. on Sep. 24,
1996.
In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4 of the drawings, the plunger 28
comprises a tube which has its distal end (the end farthest from the
expulsion end 22A of the holder 22) 28B formed into a gripping portion 50.
As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the gripping portion 50 comprises a portion of the
plunger 28 that is flattened and formed into a tab structure at the distal
end 28B of the plunger 28. The tab comprises a planar extension of the
distal end 28B of the plunger 28. The gripping portion 50 can serve
several purposes, including serving as a positioning indicator, and to
facilitate the retraction of the flexible loop 24 after the tampon 26 is
deployed.
It should, however, be understood that the plunger 28 is not limited to a
component having the configuration shown in the drawings, and that
numerous other configurations may also be used. For example, instead of
being formed into a gripping portion, the distal end 28B of the plunger 28
could be left unmodified as shown on the embodiment in FIGS. 5-8. In other
alternative embodiments, the plunger 28 can be provided with an optional
feature to allow the user to better grip the plunger 28. Suitable gripping
features include raised formations, depressions, and apertures (similar to
those structures which may be used as the finger grip 30 in the tubular
holder 22).
It should also be understood that the plunger 28 is an optional, but
preferred component for use with the present invention, and that the
present invention will be fully functional if the plunger 28 is omitted,
or if the plunger 28 comprises a part of the loop 24. Thus, the tubular
plunger 28 shown in FIGS. 1-4 can omitted altogether, and the tampon 26
can be expelled when the user pushes on the ends 36 and 38 of the piece of
material 34 that lie opposite the end of the piece of material 34 that is
formed into the flexible loop 24.
To use the tampon applicator of the present invention the user will
typically hold the holder 22 in one hand at the finger grips on the same.
The holder 22 should be positioned adjacent to the vaginal opening with
the indicator (if present) aligned so that when the tampon 26 is deployed,
it will expand laterally within the wearer's vaginal cavity. The user
holds the end of the plunger 28, such as with her thumb and forefinger,
and pushes the plunger 28 inward to slide the plunger 28 within the holder
22. The user pushes on the plunger 28 until the loop 24 opens and the
tampon 26 is deployed as shown in FIG. 3. The user then pulls the plunger
28 back outward in order retract the loop 24, and removes the applicator
20 from the vaginal opening.
The combination of the applicator 20 and the tampons described herein
provides numerous advantages. One particular advantage is that the
applicator 20 described herein is capable of applying a force to the
inside of the leading end or "head" of the tampons of the type described
herein. That is, it applies a force against the portion of the tampon that
is oriented toward the wearer's cervix. This force preferably has a
laterally outwardly-oriented vector component (more preferably, the
applicators described herein provide two forces with outwardly-oriented
vector components that are oriented in opposite directions) that act on
the sides 26D of the tampon 26 adjacent to the leading end 26A. This will
ensure that the tampon 26 is able to be expanded to a maximum width
dimension at the head of the tampon 26. Thus, the applicator 20 of the
present invention is able to fully deploy the bag-like tampons described
herein, unlike prior spreading tampon applicators in which the greatest
expansion occurs at some intermediate portion along the length of the
applicator.
However, the present invention does not exclude embodiments of applicators
(or tampons) in which the greatest expansion of the tampon occurs at
intermediate portions thereof For instance, the applicators described
herein can be configured to apply a force to a portion of inside surface
of the tampon 26 that is midway (or half way) from the trailing end 26B of
the tampon 26 to the head 26A of the tampon, or to some such portion of
the tampon that lies between such a point and the head 26A of the tampon.
In other embodiments, the applicators 20 can apply a force to a portion
that is on the inside surface of the tampon 26 that is one third of the
way from the trailing end 26B of the tampon 26 to the head 26A of the
tampon, or to some such portion of the tampon that lies between a point
which lies between such a point and the head 26A of the tampon.
In addition, alternative embodiments of the tampon 26 can be constructed
which are configured so that the applicators described herein provide the
greatest expansion at an intermediate portion of the tampon. For example,
if the bag-like tampons described herein are provided with an insert (such
as a small compressed batt of absorbent material (or small compressed
tampon)) inside thereof at the head end 26A of the tampon 26, the
applicators 20 described herein may press on the end of such a small
compressed tampon rather than the head end of the bag-like structure. As a
result, the greatest expansion may occur at some intermediate portion of
the bag-like tampon. In still other embodiments, the applicators described
herein can be used or modified to provide the greatest expansion at the
trailing end of the tampon.
A non-limiting number of alternative embodiments of the present invention
are also possible. In the form which is shown in FIGS. 1-4, the applicator
20 comprises a single loop of material 24.
FIGS. 5-8 show that in another embodiment, the flexible loop 24 can be
provided with the ability to rotate as it deploys. Such an embodiment is
useful in initially aligning the loop parallel to the opening of the
vagina when the tampon is inserted through the vaginal opening, and then
changing the orientation of the loop so that it is aligned parallel to the
vaginal cavity when the tampon is deployed.
The applicator shown in FIGS. 5-8 is simplified in that it is of an open
end type, and it is not provided with finger grips, or the like. The
plunger 28 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, has a leading end 28A
and a distal end 28B. As shown in FIG. 7, the flexible loop 24 is
preferably joined to the plunger 28. The term "joined", as used in this
specification, encompasses configurations in which an element is directly
secured to another element by affixing the element directly to the other
element; configurations in which the element is indirectly secured to the
other element by affixing the element to intermediate member(s) which in
turn are affixed to the other element; and configurations in which one
element is integral with another element, i.e., one element is essentially
part of the other element. The flexible loop 24 can be joined to the
plunger 28 in any suitable manner. In this particular embodiment, the ends
36 and 38 of the flexible loop 24 are embedded in a material, such as a
plastic material 54 that fills the interior of the leading end 28A of the
plunger 28.
It should be understood, however, that any of the embodiments of the
applicators described herein can be provided with any of the features
described herein, or combinations thereof, and that the embodiments shown
are not limited to having the particular features shown in the drawings.
The applicator shown in FIGS. 5-8 is also shown without the tampon thereon
for simplicity of illustration.
FIG. 5 shows the applicator 20 as the flexible loop 24 is just beginning to
be deployed. FIG. 6 shows the flexible loop 24 as it is partially deployed
before it rotates. As shown in FIG. 6, the flexible loop 24 is in a
vertical position that matches the orientation of the vaginal opening.
That is, the flexible loop 24 lies in the Y-Z plane. FIG. 7 shows the
applicator 20 when the flexible loop 24 is fully deployed and rotated 90
degrees from the position shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 to correspond to the
orientation of the vaginal cavity. That is, the loop lies in the X-Y
plane.
FIG. 8 shows one preferred mechanism used to make the flexible loop 24
rotate. As shown in FIG. 8, a pin 60 passes through at least one of the
components of the applicator that slides through the holder 22. The pin 60
is preferably connected either directly or indirectly to the flexible loop
24. The ends of the pin 60 engage with a pair of channels 62 on the inside
surface of the tubular holder 22. The channels 62 are preferably initially
oriented parallel to the longitudinal centerline, L, of the holder 22.
This is shown as the portions of the channels 62 that lie to the left of
the pin 60 in FIG. 8. The channels 62 then angle away from the
longitudinal centerline of the holder 22 toward the expulsion end 22A of
the holder 22. When the pin 60 slides through the channels 62, this
angling away of the channels 62 toward the expulsion end 22A causes the
flexible loop 24 to rotate.
The embodiment shown in FIGS. 5-8 is preferably intended to be capable of
only operating properly when the user inserts the tampon in the proper
orientation. This will automatically correctly spread the tampon laterally
across the width of the vaginal cavity. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 5-8,
once it is in the proper insertion orientation, thereby provides a
"signal" to the user that the tampon is properly deployed.
In another embodiment, a particularly preferred embodiment, which is shown
in FIGS. 9 and 10, the applicator comprises two (or more) loops of
material. The loops of material 24 can be oriented in any suitable
relationship relative to each other. In this particularly preferred
embodiment, the loops of material 24A and 24B are preferably oriented at
an angle of about 90 degrees relative to each other when the applicator 20
is viewed from the end. This embodiment has the advantage of providing an
increased likelihood of ensuring that at least one of the loops of
material will be oriented in the same plane as the vaginal cavity
regardless of the orientation of the applicator 20 when it is inserted in
the vaginal cavity. As shown in FIG. 10, even though the loops 24A and 24B
were initially oriented at right angles, they are sufficiently flexible
under low forces that one of the loops (in this case 24A) will be capable
of "flattening" and adjusting its orientation to that of the other loop.
This allows it to conform to the collapsed orientation of the vaginal
cavity. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 is capable of adjusting in
this manner regardless of how the loops are initially oriented relative to
the vaginal cavity. As a result, there is no need for the user to be
concerned with properly orienting the applicator 20 relative to the
vaginal opening.
FIGS. 11-13 show that in another embodiment, the applicator 20 has a loop
24 that is constrained in length as it deploys. This provides the loop 24
with the desired transverse spreading action, but is in the form of a
structure that has a shorter length when deployed. The constrained loop 24
in this embodiment may also provide a greater spread in the transverse
direction (that is, in width) in comparison to the types of loops shown in
the preceding figures.
In FIGS. 11-13, the loop 24 is preferably constrained in length by joining
a portion of the loop 24 to another portion of the applicator 20. More
specifically, in this embodiment the leading end 24A of the loop 24 is
joined by an element, such as a string 64 that has one end 64A joined to
the leading end 24A of the loop 24 and its opposite end 24B joined to a
portion of the applicator, such as the holder 22. Preferably, in this
embodiment, the end 24B of the string 24 passes through a hole 66 in the
material 54 in which the ends of the flexible loop 24 are embedded. In the
embodiment shown, the end of the string is joined to a pin 68 (which can
be similar to the pin used in the previous embodiment) that passes through
the holder 22. The plunger 28 has a pair of channels 70 therein that
accommodate the pin 68 when the plunger 28 is pushed into the holder 22.
The pin 68 and the end of string 64B attached thereto remain fixed in
position, and the string 64. Since the string 64 is of a constant length,
this maintains the leading end 24A of the loop in the same relative
position before and after the flexible loop 24 is deployed. As shown in
FIGS. 12 and 13, when deployed, the loop 24 in this embodiment resembles a
"ram's horn" in appearance.
FIG. 14 shows another alternative embodiment of the present invention in
which the loop has been replaced with several prongs 74, which serve as
the applicator element(s). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, there are
four prongs 74A, B, C, and D that resemble the loops of the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 in their arrangement relative to each other. This
embodiment is an example of a flexible, movable structure that comprises
one or more elements, the prongs 74. The prongs 74 are preferably convexly
rounded to provide a comfortable surface against the wearer's body. The
prongs 74 are preferably arranged in pairs, each having two opposing
prongs 74 that are capable of flexing and expanding away from each other.
Numerous other embodiments and features can be provided. For example, as
shown in FIG. 15, the spreading tampon applicator 20, in one simple,
albeit less convenient embodiment, can comprise a member such as a simple
rigid or semi-rigid rod or tube that is used in conjunction with the
hollow, bag-like tampon 26. The rod 20 has a leading end (or distal end)
20A for insertion into portion of the tampon that will first enter the
wearer's vagina and a trailing end (or proximal end, since it is closest
to the wearer's hand during insertion) 20B that the user holds.
The type of applicator 20 shown in FIG. 15 is not limited to structures in
the nature of rods or tubes, however. Such an applicator can be of many
suitable shapes. For instance, the applicator 20 can be formed by
flattening a cylindrical cardboard applicator of a conventional type, and
binding the applicator so that it remains in a flattened condition.
Alternatively, the applicator 20 can resemble an analytical spatula. The
applicator 20 may have a portion adjacent to the leading end 20A that is
spoon-shaped (or "shoe horn" shaped) to fit the wearer's cervix. In other
embodiments, the portion of the applicator 20 that is adjacent to the
leading end 20A (for example, the distal half of the applicator) can
comprise a structure in the nature of a flattened stick. This portion of
the applicator may resemble a tongue depressor.
Regardless of the configuration of such an applicator, the leading end 20A
is preferably rounded or soft so that it is comfortable for the user. The
leading end 20A can be provided in a rounded configuration, or with soft
properties in many suitable ways. The leading end 20A can, for example,
comprise a ball-like element, a bulbous projection, or a circular or
semi-circular element. In these or other embodiments, the leading end 20A
of the rod 20 can comprise a compressible material, or a soft material,
which may include, but is not limited to a compressed foam. Further, if it
is desired to provide a more compact applicator of the type shown in FIG.
15, the applicator can comprise one or more telescoping pieces and a
locking mechanism for locking the pieces in an extended configuration.
The hollow, bag-like tampon 26 is fit over the rod 20 and the tampon 26 is
inserted into the vagina by pressing against the inside surface of the
tampon adjacent to the "head" (or leading end) 26A of the tampon 26. The
tampon 26 has an initial width when it is fit over the applicator 20. The
user can then expand the tampon to a greater deployed width. Preferably,
the user spreads the longitudinal sides 26D of the tampon 26 in some
suitable manner so that the tampon 26 is spread across the width of the
vagina. In the simplest embodiment, the user moves the rod 20 side to side
manually until the tampon 26 is spread to the desired condition.
As noted above, the applicator 20 may optionally be provided with a
positioning indicator for assuring that the tampon is deployed properly in
the vaginal cavity. The positioning indicator can be any suitable type of
element that assures that the tampon is properly deployed. Suitable
positioning indicators include, but are not limited to: a discontinuity on
one or more portions of the applicator 20 or difference in the shape of
one or more portions of the applicator 20 (such as a flattened portion of
the same); indicia such as a mark on one or more portions of the
applicator 20, or combinations of any of the foregoing. If a positioning
indicator is used, it is preferably sensitive to touch to enable the user
to properly position the applicator for insertion of the tampon without
the necessity of viewing the indicator to ensure proper insertion. In the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4, the gripping portion 50 on the trailing end
28B of the plunger 28 can serve as the positioning indicator. Preferably,
however, the applicator 20 is one which can be used regardless of how it
is initially oriented, and is of a type that does not require a
positioning indicator.
In addition, as shown in FIG. 14, the applicator 20 may be spring-loaded,
such as by providing it with a spring 80 near the trailing end 28B of the
plunger 28 (or on some other element of the applicator) that biases the
plunger 28 toward a retracted position. Thus, when the user pushes on the
plunger 28 to deploy the tampon, the spring 80 will be compressed. The
spring 80 will exert a force which will tend to make the plunger 28 return
toward the retracted position. After the user stops pushing on the plunger
28, the plunger 28 will automatically return to its retracted condition
with no action required on the part of the user.
The disclosures of all patents, patent applications (and any patents which
issue thereon, as well as any corresponding published foreign patent
applications), and publications mentioned throughout this patent
application are hereby incorporated by reference herein. It is expressly
not admitted, however, that any of the documents incorporated by reference
herein teach or disclose the present invention. It is also expressly not
admitted that any of the commercially available materials or products
described herein teach or disclose the present invention.
While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated
and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that
various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from
the spirit and scope of the invention.
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